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Learning to Play Tennis

Jerry is giving Fay her first tennis lesson.

Fay: Jerry, could you show me how to hold the racket?

Jerry: Sure Fay, it's just like shaking hands. Hold your hand out as though you were going to shake my hand...

Fay: Do you mean like this?

Jerry: Right, like that. Then put the racket in your hand, like this.

Fay: So now I'm ready to hit the ball!

Jerry: Remember what I told you. There are two types of swings, the forehand and the backhand.

Fay: I remember. You told me hitting a forehand, starting on my right, is like hitting a ping pong ball.

Jerry: Exactly. Why don't you try one now. Ready? Hit this!

Fay: Oops! I missed it completely!

Jerry: That's okay, try again. This time, keep your eye on the ball.

Fay: Keep my eye where?

Jerry: It's just an expression. "Keep your eye on the ball" means watch the ball carefully.

Fay: Oh, I see. Let me try again...

Jerry: Here comes another ball... Wow! You hit it over the fence! You're a very powerful lady.

Fay: Hee hee hee. I guess I need to practice more.

Jerry: Sure, but with a bit of practice, you'll be able to keep the ball in the court.

Fay: Now what about the backhand?

Jerry: Many people think the backhand is difficult, but actually it's quite simple. It's a lot like slapping your boyfriend in the face!

Fay: Huh? What do you mean?

Jerry: Just pull your racket back to your left, then imagine you see your boyfriend with another woman!

Fay: Why that dirty rat!


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